Day in the Life of a Software Developer

The day-to-day work of software development means more than just sitting behind a keyboard. Tasked with building, testing, and maintaining software, software developers find creative ways to craft applications, programs, and systems that meet user needs.

A day in the life of a software developer involves working on applications, programs, and systems at various stages of development. People who like solving problems, working with computers, and collaborating with fellow software professionals may thrive as developers.

Software developers are creative, detail-oriented challenge-seekers. Learn more about the job description of a software developer with this guide.

What Is a Software Developer?

Software developers create applications for computers and mobile devices. After assessing the needs of clients and users, these developers design, build, test, and maintain functional, efficient software.

Software developers need proficiency in programming languages, data structures, and cloud computing. The career path for software development typically involves earning a bachelor's degree in computer science, software development, or a related discipline. Some professionals may find employment with associate degrees, certificates, or diplomas. Bootcamps can also build the knowledge and skills workers need to find jobs in this field.

A day in the life of most software developers happens in the fields of computer systems design and related services. Because software use transcends industries, these professionals can also pursue employment in diverse industries like finance, software publishing, and manufacturing.

Software developers create models and diagrams, write code, and test applications. They also collaborate with coders, software engineers, and graphic designers on software projects. Additional day-to-day duties include recommending software updates and troubleshooting issues as they arise.

What Does a Software Developer Do?

Software developers create and maintain software for electronic devices. They use models to construct code that meets established specifications. These workers solve problems, run functionality tests, and correct errors.

A day in the life of a software developer includes working independently and on teams. Professionals in this field participate in brainstorming sessions, meetings, and collaborative activities with fellow software designers, programmers, engineers, and graphic designers.

These jobs provide opportunities for creativity, innovation, and growth in the field. Find out more about the main responsibilities of software designers below.

A Software Developer's Main Responsibilities

The Day-to-Day for a Software Developer

The day-to-day of software development jobs often features consistent core activities, even as different projects shift the scope of individual developers' roles.

Software developers attend meetings to discuss new projects with clients. If meetings occur once a development project is underway, developers may brainstorm ideas with designers, coders, and engineers. These workers often present written or visual updates about the development process to colleagues or managers.

Software developers may also spend time coding new projects or improving existing applications. As part of this process, they test code to assess functionality and outcomes. Working on projects for weeks or months may become frustrating or tedious, but software developers should remain persistent, determined problem-solvers when facing challenges.

Where Do Software Developers Work?

Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reveals that the industries that employ the most software developers include computer systems design services, software publishers, and computing infrastructure providers. The states with the most software development jobs include California, Texas, New York, Washington, and Virginia — all home to many large tech companies.

Most of these states also pay software developers above-average wages, with cities like San Jose, Boulder, San Francisco, and Seattle leading the nation. Often, large tech companies offer the highest wages and more stable employment, but some developers may prefer the culture and experience of working for smaller startups.

Professional Spotlight: Chris Staley, Senior Software Developer

Chris Staley

With over two decades of experience, Chris is an expert full-stack developer, although the last few years his focus has been on mobile apps. Chris leads the Xamarin effort, and views himself as a meticulous craftsman. When he leaves the office, he heads home to his family in his blue and white Ford Mustang.

Pronouns: He/Him

What's a typical day like for you?

Is there a typical day?

Usually, I start out with answering emails. Especially today, with the prevalence of geographically distributed teams, you'll probably come in and have some messages that came through while you were sleeping. It's important to start out by getting caught up on the current state of things.

After that, there's usually a handful of morning meetings. I've noticed that with more seniority comes more meetings. After that, the main thing I try to do is figure out a plan for the actual work I need to get done — the stuff people really care about. Usually, this is in the afternoon. So to summarize my day, mornings are about catching up and being in meetings, while the afternoon is for writing code and testing stuff.

What other teams do you work with on a regular basis?

Since Slingshot is a development firm, it's a little different. While we don't work with an internal accounting or marketing team, we still have our own divisions: our UX/UI design team, our project management team, and our infrastructure team (shoutout, Steve!). And, of course, we also work very closely with our clients' development and/or leadership teams.

Is there a lot of collaboration in your role? Or is it mostly independent work?

The key to software is collaboration. Developers will work alongside everyone else who has an interest in the outcome of what you're building at some point in the process. This isn't just leadership, but any role involved in helping make the product a reality.

Do you work in an office or from home (or a hybrid)?

When I started my career, remote work was very uncommon. I personally prefer to be in the office; I like the in-person interaction. That's what makes it fun. Virtual meeting tools are definitely important, but there's no replacement for being in the same room as your team.

What's your favorite part of being a software developer? The most challenging part?

Favorite: The most satisfaction for me comes from when you have something you've created that's being used to help tackle important problems. It's knowing that you created something that actually helps a company or person.

For example, one of our clients still uses a scheduling system that I wrote for them almost a decade ago, and it's a key driver of their business. It's fulfilling to know that your work is helping a business thrive.

Most challenging part? Estimates. Enough said.

"Software development is all about problem-solving. Programming is only a small part of what we do. It's the problems we have to solve that make up the bulk of the work."

Any other insights about your day to day as a software developer that may help people considering this career path?

I would say that if you're not passionate about it, don't do it. There are certainly frustrations and challenges; it's not all fun and games.

There's nothing day-to-day that makes or breaks being a software developer. There will always be challenges that will get the best of you, but that's with any job. But if you're passionate about it, you'll be motivated to push through it and thrive.

For whom do you think this career is a good fit? Why?

Software development is all about problem-solving. Programming is only a small part of what we do. It's the problems we have to solve that make up the bulk of the work.

It's also the first thing I look for when I'm conducting interviews. I always ask, "Why do you want to be a software developer?" I want to see if problem-solving is a part of their answer since it's so important.

FAQ About a Day in the Life of a Software Developer

Can software developers work from home?

Yes, some companies allow software developers to work from home. Others require in-person office attendance some or all days of the week. Investigate each job posting closely to determine whether a company permits work-from-home arrangements.

How many hours do software developers work each day?

Most full-time software developers work an eight-hour day. Freelance or contract software developers, however, may work more or less than the traditional 40-hour week.

Do software developers sit all day?

Yes, software developers spend the majority of their days sitting in front of a computer screen. Professionals who work from home may find that taking breaks to walk, exercise, run errands, or using a standing desk can help break up the tediousness of so much sitting.

Is a day in the life of a software developer usually stressful?

Software development professionals may face complex technical problems, frustrating work situations, or challenging office politics. These external factors may make a particular job stressful even if the overall career is not taxing.